Breaking Stereotypes: Briella Scantlebury's Journey in Burnout Competitions
Briella Scantlebury, a 14-year-old from regional WA, is gearing up to make her mark in the world of car burnout competitions. With her stepdad's help in modifying her V6 Commodore, Briella is set to participate in her first burnout event in 2025. She aims to break stereotypes and inspire young women to join the sport.
Hailing from Harvey, south of Perth, Briella's passion for burnouts was ignited after witnessing the sport at the Collie Motorplex. Her parents surprised her with a skid car on her 14th birthday, and since then, Briella has been eager to showcase her skills on the pad with her uniquely personalized car, complete with a nitrous bottle plush toy and a distinctive number plate.
Briella's stepdad, Damien Shaw, has ensured that her Commodore is competition-ready, emphasizing her natural talent behind the wheel. Briella's enthusiasm and skill have impressed her family, with Mr. Shaw describing her as a fearless driver who is quick to push the limits of the accelerator.
To compete in burnout events, Briella must obtain a special license from the Australian Auto-Sport Alliance and have parental supervision while driving. Safety measures are paramount, with fire extinguishers, fire marshals, and ambulance crews on standby at the venues. Briella's commitment to safety is evident as she has even acquired a fire suit for added protection.
Despite being a young female competitor in a male-dominated sport, Briella is determined to prove her worth and encourage other girls to pursue their passion for motorsports. She acknowledges the misconceptions surrounding burnouts but finds the adrenaline rush and skill involved in creating smoke trails fascinating.
Looking ahead, Briella aims to participate in a burnout competition by the end of 2025, with various events held in regional WA. Organizers like Chloe Wojtowicz, involved in the Bunbury Burnout Challenge, have witnessed a significant increase in female drivers over the years. They emphasize the fun, skill-building, and camaraderie within the burnout community, aiming to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity in the sport.
In conclusion, Briella Scantlebury's journey into the world of burnout competitions exemplifies determination, skill, and a passion for defying stereotypes. As she prepares to showcase her talent on the burnout pad, Briella serves as an inspiration for young women aspiring to break barriers and make their mark in the motorsport industry.